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Automated Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring

Topic Overview

An ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a small device that is worn throughout the day, usually
for 24 or 48 hours. The device takes your blood pressure automatically while you do your normal daily activities.

The device periodically inflates and takes blood pressure
measurements, which are recorded for later printout and analysis. The devices
are usually loaned by a clinic, hospital, or pharmacy.

You doctor might ask you to use one of these monitors if he or she thinks you have white-coat (or office) hypertension or if there is a difference between the blood pressure you have at home and in your doctor's office. These monitors are also valuable for diagnosing and
treating
high blood pressure in pregnant women and older
adults.

If you are required to use an ambulatory blood pressure monitor, keep
in mind that it is important for a health professional to properly size the
cuff, which fits around your arm. Fitting does not take long.

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